There are several other apartments in Alfama, the medieval Moorish neighborhood where an emerging cosmopolitanism mixes with the “natives” day-to-day life. It is a village in the heart of the city, due to the fact that most of Alfama’s residents have lived here their entire lives and retain a strong sense of community.

Alfama was first settled by the Romans and Visigoths and was an important Jewish neighbourhood in the 15th century, but it was the Moors who gave the district its atmosphere and name (al hamma means springs, a reference to the hot springs used as baths until the 17th century). It is crowned by São Jorge castle, which was built by the Visigoths in the 5th century and enlarged by the Moors in the 9th century.

Be surprised by Alfama's narrow cobblestone alleyways, stairs and squares, built on a rock-hill that was responsible for its survival after the big 1755 earthquake that destroyed most of the medieval city. A walk through this old-fashioned residential neighbourhood is now a step back in time.

It is an ideal place to explore hidden places, stunning views over the city, the river Tejo, restaurants, fado houses, or even to dance and eat sardines during the popular June festivals. Here you can find numerous little grocery shops, taverns and small restaurants - most having no more than 3 tables. At the edge of the Alfama, Lisbon's renowned flea market, the Feira da Ladra, is held in the Campo de Santa Clara every Tuesday and Saturday.

Contrasting with these timeless images is a trendy modern development by the waterfront across from Santa Apolónia train station which houses stylish design shops, restaurants and bars. From here you can explore the rest of the city walking to the castle (S. Jorge) or to Baixa, Bairro Alto, Chiado or Santa Clara.

If you decide to go up instead of going down, you will find an astonishing view of the city from Miradouro da Graça or from the one where is the church of St. Maria do Monte da Graça. You will also be able to visit a Spanish baroque style monastery S. Vicente de Fora (mark of the Spanish domination of Portugal until 1640).

Came and see for yourself!